A common concept associated with networking is the Elevator Pitch, which many people imagine as a single, brief, high-stakes opportunity to sell themselves or their idea. This creates pressure that can result in canned, inauthentic conversations. But people don’t do interviews or make job offers in elevators.
So instead of thinking of these brief networking interactions as opportunities to sell yourself, why not reframe them as Elevator Conversations? An Elevator Conversation is an opportunity to tell your story and make a connection. It’s a chance to engage organically, generate enough interest to be remembered, and plan to move the relationship forward through a phone call, email, interview, or longer conversation later.
To be able to communicate clearly, it’s helpful to reflect on a few questions before entering into a conversation: First, ask yourself, who will you be speaking with? Is it a specific person? Also consider, how might you be able to contribute to different projects, teams, and organizations?
Then reflect on what unique experiences have you had? These could be personal or professional. As you learn the interests and needs of a new person, you’ll be able to connect the relevant parts of their experiences with your own.
An elevator conversation might go something like this: First, introduce yourself: "Hi, I’m an intern at Y-Triple-I. " "Hi, I’m MB McGee. I oversee hydroelectric projects at HydroLarge Engineering.
" Next, a good Elevator Conversation makes a connection to them or their organization. You might continue with something like, "It’s nice to meet you - I’ve read about the conservation work that HydroLarge Engineering Company is doing! " "Really?
I’m glad you’ve heard about our work! " Then build on the connection: "I was especially interested because I’ve been helping our customers understand their energy use, and I started thinking about how your technology might help our customers too. " "That’s interesting, I hadn’t thought about that possibility.
. " An effective Elevator Conversation should conclude with a call to action. You could end with something like, "I’d love to have a longer conversation about it - could I follow up with you by phone or email?
" And you’ll be surprised how often you’ll hear a response like, "Sure, I’d be happy to chat more. Here’s my information. " By reflecting on your own skills and accomplishments, listening and engaging with curiosity, and looking for shared experiences and interests, you can make a good connection in a short amount of time.
Rather than pitching yourself or your ideas, an elevator conversation is an opportunity to connect with another person, and move the relationship forward.
